Jump to the good stuff: The Story | Some Thoughts | The Final Verdict
The Story:
The Astronaut Lovers is a romantic comedy about two friends who reunite and become attracted to each other.
Pedro (Javier Orán) arrives at his family home in Argentina to spend time with relatives and friends he’d grown up with. When he meets the straight and flirtatious Maxi (Lautaro Bettoni), the two hit it off. As Pedro and Maxi spend time together, Maxi begins asking daring and suggestive questions that arouse Pedro and make him wonder if they’re having a bromance or a romance. And with that, the drama begins.
Some Thoughts:
If you’ve seen any of Marco Berger’s other films (Hawaii, The Blonde One, Taekwondo, etc…), The Astronaut Lovers will be more of the same. It continues Berger’s exploration of suppressed desire, sexual tension, and romantic longing.
The film is a master class in beauty, simplicity, and tone. Berger takes his time, allowing the story to unfold without forcing conflict. The cast understands his vision and deliver relaxed performances that feel like friends hanging out. It’s mostly very chill, which adds to the deliberate pacing.
As the romantic leads, Orán and Bettoni have what it takes to make everything come together. Their chemistry and acting abilities are so good that you can’t stop watching.
The Final Verdict:
If you have not seen any of Marco Berger’s films, The Astronaut Lovers is a good place to start. This is truly one of his best. It’s full of honest emotion and will leave you feeling good.